The first edition of the IJF Sakura Judo programme in Lima, Peru, has concluded after three days of activities from 5 to 7 August 2026. Organised in partnership with the Peruvian Judo Federation, the programme brought together 30 participants, including women athletes, coaches, referees, administrators, event organisers and judo leaders, around the themes of leadership, confidence and shared experience.
The programme covered six core areas: women's leadership and confidence training, IJF Academy technical courses, kata and referee education, development of women coaches and administrators, Safe Sport and athlete protection, and practical self-defence education.
Throughout the three days, participants were encouraged to see their roles in judo beyond competitive participation. Coaching, refereeing, administration and leadership were presented as pathways that can continue after an athlete's competitive career, and the programme stressed mutual support and building a stronger women's network in judo.
Sakura Judo is part of the IJF's broader commitment to expanding women's participation and leadership in judo worldwide. The choice of Peru reflects the IJF's strategy of bringing development programmes directly to regions where women's judo leadership has the greatest potential for growth.